“My motivation to run for school board is to pay a debt of gratitude. I am thankful for the amazing teachers and school system that have helped my children thrive as students and citizens.
We need to continue to build on the legacy of what has made Orono the #1 traditional public school in the state.
As a school board member, I will work for all children and listen to all voices putting students’ educational needs first.
My responsibility will be to understand the best practices and research, and the voices of experts, the parents, and community, to ensure that our schools and teachers have the most effective tools to teach our students.
As a district, we must look to the future. Preparing our students to succeed in an increasingly complex and rapidly moving world is critical.
I believe an Orono graduate will be one of tomorrow’s best and brightest.”
My Vision for Orono Students
Students will have success for today and be prepared for tomorrow.
Students need a balance of foundational skills and a broad knowledge base necessary for critical thinking and the ability to compete in today's world.
Upon graduation, students will be engaged citizens, bringing kindness, honesty, and perseverance to all that they do.
My Priorities
A rigorous learning environment providing opportunities for all students.
Continuous improvement of programs and policies with a focus on literacy.
Advocacy for the interests of all Orono students at the local and state levels.
Improved communication and transparency with parents and the community to keep everyone informed with the same, accurate information.
Responsible fiscal stewardship of the funds used to support Orono Schools.
Continuity of the school-community connections that enhance Orono Schools.
Wendy In Action
Wendy testifying at the MN House and MN Senate for HF288/SF244 on the importance of providing grant funding for Minnesota educators to complete Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling. The bill passed the Senate and the House with bipartisan support, and $3,000,000 in grant funding was included in the Governor’s Omnibus Bill in 2021.
Senator Roger Chamberlain, R-Lino Lakes; Rachel Berger, Executive Director Decoding Dyslexia MN; Wendy Lundsgaard, DDMN board; Rachel Depa, Delano School Board member and former President DDMN.
Wendy at the Capitol in support of SF2872: $33,000,000 in grant funding for educators in Minnesota to complete Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling.
“Wendy has volunteered countless hours with Decoding Dyslexia Minnesota (DDMN). During her time with DDMN I have had the opportunity to work with her on all issues related to Dyslexia and then struggling readers. I have no doubt her work and dedication to the cause has led to significant improvements for those struggling with Dyslexia and reading. She has been a great champion for kids, teachers and parents.”
—Senator Roger Chamberlain (38, R), Chair, MN Senate, K12 policy & finance committee
Welcomed new kindergarten families to Schumann Elementary and celebrated my 8th year co-chairing the #1 Scholastic Book Fair in the nation. Committed to the success of our children and to the success of our schools.
For years I have volunteered my time educating the community on various aspects of literacy. An informed community is a strong community.
A field trip with my first grade class in 1999. As a member of the school board, I will always support and champion our educators. I know the dedication it takes and the responsibility it carries.
I was incredibly honored to be asked to participate in the task force that developed the “Profile of an Orono Graduate.” The group was a balance of parents, teachers, district leaders, and community members brought together to create a shared vision regarding the cognitive, personal, and interpersonal competencies that students need to be successful in work, citizenship, and life. I didn’t know it then, but I know it now that I have been preparing for the role of school board member for over 20 years.